HCW Accepted & Unacceptable Items

Accepted Items


  • All aerosol products (spray paint, hair spray, etc.)
  • Motor oil, antifreeze, gas, brake fluid, etc.
  • Asbestos containing products
  • Batteries: Lithium, NI-CAD, Metal Hydride Batteries (NO ALKALINE)
  • Acids: Hydrocloric and Sulfuric           (aka: Battery Acid)
  • Drain cleaners, household cleaners, metal polishes
  • Driveway sealers, deck sealers and cleaners, paint removers
  • Fertilizer, herbicide, pesticide, insecticide
  • Compact fluorescent lamps and tubes
  • Solvents: Mineral spirits, kerosene, thinners, sealers
  • Mercury (thermometers, thermostats, etc.)
  • Oil-based paints, stains, varnishes, sealers
  • Pool chemicals
  • Personal care products: Cosmetics, shampoos, nail polish, etc.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription (people and pet)

Important Notice about Batteries

The following batteries are NOT ACCEPTED at SWALCO sponsored Residential Electronics Collection sites or the SWALCO Household Chemical Waste Collection program:

 
    Alkaline Batteries: AAA, AA, C, D, 9v & 6v 
    Alkaline batteries are non-hazardous and may be disposed of in the regular trash.  Other options include drop off at retail stores that sell Alkaline Batteries such as Ace Hardware, Best Buy, Batteries Plus Bulbs, Home Depot, Lowes and Staples. Always call first to verify that they are accepting batteries and what if any volume limits they might have.  Also check with the www.Call2Recycle.org website.
     
    Lead Acid Batteries: Auto, Motorcycle, Boat, Recreational Vehicle, Lawn Tractor, and Backup Sump Pump.
    Lead acid batteries are prohibited by State law from being disposed of in the trash and should be returned to place of purchase or to a metal scrap yard that accept them.
The following rechargeable and long life non-rechargeable batteries are ACCEPTED at both SWALCO sponsored residential electronics collection sites and the SWALCO Household Chemical Waste Collection program: 

    Rechargeable and  Long Life Non-Rechargeable Batteries: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh), Lithium, Zinc-Air, Silver-oxide and Small Sealed Lead Acid  

A note about safe handling of Rechargeable and Long Life Non-Rechargeable batteries prior to delivery to a collection location:  To avoid the risk of cross-contact of battery terminals, which can result in sparking and possible fire, Please place a piece of household tape over each terminal or contact point of each battery or place each battery into a self-locking plastic baggie (one battery per bag).